The revitalization of downtown Silver Spring, developed in the context of Maryland's Smart Growth policies, represents a re-invention of first ring suburb through a creative public/private partnership. This revitalization has resulted in more than one million square feet of retail space including movie theaters; restaurants; office space; multi-family dwelling units; civic space and parking garages, including the world headquarters for Discovery Communications. The revitalized downtown, located adjacent to a Metro stop, also includes four reconstructed main streets with extensive new streetscape for safe and attractive pedestrian movement. The Selection Committee commended this project for providing a transit-oriented model of redevelopment in a first ring suburb serving a diverse population. They noted the attraction of Discovery and AFI to this location and lauded the development's urbanization and walkability, noting the retail spaces were used both day and night. The also commended Silver Spring on improvements to public spaces, and suggested that the project will gain in character and strength as the remaining parts are completed.